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second annual Jewish Social Action Month will begin next week and continue through the Hebrew month of Cheshvan as part of a project aiming to increase volunteerism throughout the worldwide Jewish community. Events planned for Cheshvan, which this year falls between October 23 and November 21, include assisting the north of Israel after the recent war, partnering with schools in Nepal, working in underprivileged townships in South Africa and building homes for the poor in St. Louis. Jewish Social Action Month was conceived by KolDor, an international network of young Jewish activists. This year's launch will be hosted at the Knesset by MK Rabbi Michael Melchior. Cheshvan, the only month in the Jewish calendar without a holiday, has traditionally been described as Mar-Cheshvan ("bitter Cheshvan"). Last year, communities and organizations in more than a dozen countries participated in volunteer programs throughout the month. (D.B.)